e., 1512] fled from the
Spaniards their masters, by reason of their cruelty, and are since grown
to a Nation, under two Kings of their own: the one inhabiteth to the
West, and the other to the East of the Way from Nombre de Dios to
Panama) which had nearly surprised it [i.e., Nombre de Dios], about six
weeks before [i.e., about 10th June, 1572].
Our Captain willing to use those Negroes well (not hurting himself) set
them ashore upon the Main, that they might perhaps join themselves to
their countrymen the Cimaroons, and gain their liberty, if they would;
or if they would not, yet by reason of the length and troublesomeness
of the way by land to Nombre de Dios, he might prevent any notice of his
coming, which they should be able to give. For he was loath to put the
town to too much charge (which he knew they would willingly bestow) in
providing beforehand for his entertainment; and therefore he hastened
his going thither, with as much speed and secrecy as possibly he could.
To this end, disposing of all his companies, according as they inclined
most; he left the three ships and the caravel with Captain RANSE; and
chose into his four pinnaces (Captain RANSE'S shallop made the fourth)
beside fifty-three of our men, twenty more of Captain RANSE'S company;
with which he seemed competently furnished, to achieve what he intended;
especially having proportioned, according to his own purpose, and our
men's disposition, their several arms, viz.
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